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Sensory Trust information sheet

Routes
Routes should be as accessible as possible. Constraints to improving access include landscape character, historic significance, public rights of way and limited budget; however the solutions do not always mean large-scale changes to a site. For example, they can come from changes in management practices or through improved signing, way-marking and information. Identify the most accessible routes and entry points (or ones that could be made the most accessible through improvements) to help to prioritise improvements. Provide alternative routes that allow greater accessibility but equal quality of experience. Prioritise access improvements along routes that lead visitors to the main features and sensory highlights of your site. Ensure that route design is sympathetic to the landscape and that the surface material used does not impact on local soils and geology. Promote routes that can contribute to healthy exercise and act as part of a persons recovery from an illness, operation and general health and wellbeing. Ensure that information provided on- and off-site regarding routes is non-judgmental; allow the visitor to decide for themselves whether or not they are able to use routes by giving as much information as possible about the route, its gradient, surface, distance and duration. Most visitors understand that it may not be a realistic aim to make all routes accessible to all visitors. However, they will expect a reasonable balance so that they can have access to the experience(s) on offer. Disabled visitors will expect to be able to have access to information regarding accessible routes through the use of maps,

leaflets and way-marking preferably onand off-site. Paths on routes should be designed to be accessible to people with limited mobility, including wheelchair users, and to those with sensory impairments. It is important to consider the aspects outlined below. These notes are intended as a basic guide and not as detailed specifications. In the UK it is essential that any design conforms to current Building Regulations.

Width of path
2.0m : room for 2 wheelchairs, or two people, side by side. 1.5m : room for 1 wheelchair plus pedestrian alongside. 1.0m : room for 1 wheelchair with no room alongside. On busy routes, passing places are particularly important. Where appropriate

these may also provide seating. Paths alongside buildings should be designed to take account of windows that open outwards.

In brief

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Prioritise improvements on routes that lead to site highlights Ensure route design is sympathetic to the landscape Ensure information is provided on- and off-site regarding routes Ensure routes offer a reasonable balance for all people to access site highlights

Gradient of paths (see also ramps)


1:15 - recommended maximum gradient. 1:20 - preferred maximum gradient. A gradient of 1:12 is the maximum given in the British Standards. In practice this gradient is too steep for many people, particularly older people and wheelchair users with limited upper body strength. Where possible, aim to exceed the standards. Gradient and length of slope must be considered together. At times, a slightly steeper gradient over a shorter distance may be more acceptable than a gentler one over a long distance. Sustained gradients of more than 1:20 must be interrupted by level resting platforms (approximately 1.8m long) at maximum intervals of 30m.

Camber
1:50 - recommended maximum 1:100 - preferred maximum Cambers present difficulties for both wheelchair users and people with visual impairments.

The Sensory Trust promotes and supports the creation and management of outdoor spaces that can be used and enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age or ability. Visit www.sensorytrust.org.uk or contact: Sensory Trust, Watering Lane Nursery, Pentewan, St.Austell, Cornwall PL26 6BE Tel: +44 (0)1726 222900 Fax: +44 (0)1726 222901 Email: enquiries@sensorytrust.org.uk
The Sensory Trust is a registered charity (No. 1020670) and a company limited by guarantee (No. 02811046) Registered Office: Watering Lane

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